The community of Fort Providence, N.W.T., is currently investigating the cause of a blockage that is causing issues with its sewage lagoon. Officials from the N.W.T.’s Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) instructed the hamlet to address the lagoon problem before winter sets in following a routine inspection.
During the inspection, it was noted that the effluent levels in the initial cell of the lagoon, where untreated sewage enters, had risen significantly, breaching one corner and encroaching towards a second cell. Levels in the second cell were also higher than usual. Dana Bowen, a communications planning specialist with ECC, explained that the lagoon comprises five interconnected cells, with solids settling in the first cell and liquid progressing to the subsequent cells through culverts.
Effluent in the second cell undergoes breakdown by sunlight and bacteria before moving to the next cell and eventually back into the environment. However, investigators discovered that water flow to the fifth cell was insufficient, indicating a potential blockage hindering the normal process. The hamlet is currently undertaking maintenance tasks, such as desludging components of the system, to identify the obstruction.
An update from October 6 on the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board website revealed that the hamlet is collaborating with a contractor to locate and rectify the issue. The update mentioned a lack of flow between the first and second cells, prompting the temporary bypassing of the first cell and the utilization of the second cell as the primary one. Additionally, pumps are being used to transport wastewater to its intended destination.
ECC’s Bowen stated that an inspector will follow up with the hamlet before winter to ensure the problem has been resolved. Mayor Danny Beaulieu of Fort Providence deferred inquiries to the hamlet’s senior administrative officer, Susan Christie, who was unavailable for comment.
